Pema Wangchuk Gyalpo (1886-1952)
the eleventh Tai Situpa

The eleventh Tai Situpa, Pema Wangchuk Gyalpo, was born in the male fire dog year in Lithang. There were many unusual and highly auspicious signs at that time. The predictions of the Gyalwa Karmapa concerning his rebirth were found to be absolutely accurate. At the age of four years he was recognized by Karmapa and taken to the great Palpung monastery. From Khachab Dorje, the fifteenth Karmapa, he received ordination and teachings. The second Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche also taught and bestowed many empowerments on him. Situ Rinpoche later recognized the sixteenth Gyalwa Karmapa, Rigpai Dorje, and performed his enthronement and ordination. He transmitted the complete teachings to him and bestowed all the initiations, explanations and empowerments. At about the age of fifty he visited the great Surmang monastery, and there performed many miracles. He passed the rest of his life partly in meditation and partly giving teachings to his many disciples. At the age of 67 he passed away amidst many auspicious signs.